Unsung heroes recognised at Norwood’s sparkling volunteer awards

Over two hundred people gathered at the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry on Wednesday night for Norwood’s 2015 Volunteer Awards, recognising excellence in volunteering.

Thirty worthy winners stepped up to the stage to receive their trophies, to applause from family, friends and Norwood staff. The judging panel was chaired by Rachael Davis Stollar and included Ashley Sweetland MBE, Lady Hazel Cosgrove, Ronnie Harris and Judy Lee.

The charity, which supports vulnerable children and their families, children with special educational needs and adults with learning disabilities, relies on the support of more than 1,000 volunteers.

Speaking after the event, Norwood Chair David Ereira said: "It was a privilege for me to be in the room with so many amazing people who give their time and energy to support Norwood. Volunteers really are the lifeblood of the charity, working across every single service. Together, this year our volunteers have contributed more than 180,000 hours of their time, saving Norwood a very impressive £2m this year.

"A ceremony like this one gives us the opportunity to show just how grateful we are to our volunteers, and how deeply they are appreciated."

The Lady J Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Muriel Kauffer. The Young Volunteer Award was shared between William Beedham and Orli West. Dan Adler won the Fundraising Volunteer Award for his involvement on the Private Equity Committee. Norwood’s Star Supporter Award was presented to Brenda Garfield and Norwood’s Unsung Heroes award was shared between Lindy Johnson and Amanda Pharez and Ian Benson.

The Star Partnership Award was presented to Vodafone, and a Special Volunteering Commendation was given to members of the Capital to Coast Fundraising Committee past and present: Stephen and Valerie Gold, Charles and Judith Barnett, Paul and Kate Bennett and Aryeh Goldberg. Julien and Cynthia Sampson, Michael and Linda Harris, and Gordon and Sandra Fox.